UVA Hosts Apprenticeship Summit
More than 120 members of the community attended the event which highlighted the benefits of creating an apprenticeship program.
October 28, 2019
The UVA Facilities Management Apprenticeship Program hosted its first Apprenticeship Summit for area business owners interested in growing their labor force by developing an apprenticeship program.
The Oct. 24 event – attended by more than 120 members of the community – included a vendor fair, keynote speaker and panel discussion about developing a Registered Apprenticeship Program, overcoming common obstacles and accessing local resources.
“We have companies who are looking to do internships and apprenticeships but don’t know where to start,” said Jennifer Schmack, economic development project manager for Albemarle County, who works with local companies to support their growth and job creation.
“I’m here because I see apprenticeships as a good pathway to share with students at the high school level,” said Kim Link, community and work-based learning coordinator for Albemarle County Public Schools. “We know in our workforce there is a tremendous need for trades. I’m here to be the bridge between these businesses and the students.”
Virginia Department of Labor & Industry (DOLI) Commissioner Ray Davenport, who started his career as an apprentice himself, gave the keynote address at the event. Davenport discussed apprenticeships as a pathway to different career opportunities and the possibility of earning additional degrees and certifications during employment.
Laura Duckworth, director of UVA FM Occupational Programs, introduced and moderated the panel portion of the program. Panel members included Virginia DOLI Registered Apprenticeship Division Director Trish Morrison, Louisa County Public Schools Career & Technical Education Director Bo Bundrick, Faulconer Construction HR Manager Sharon Burleson, Colonial Webb Vice President Ray Battani and LA Lacey President Jeff Lewis.
The UVA Apprenticeship Program was the first of its kind to be sponsored by a state agency in Virginia and has been a model for other programs in higher education, such as programs at Carnegie Mellon, James Madison, VMI, and Washington and Lee. More than 180 individuals have graduated from the Apprenticeship Program and 60 percent are still employed at the University.
NBC29: First Ever Apprenticeship Summit Held at UVA.
Jane Centofante
Communications senior generalist
UVA Facilities Management
(434) 982-5846
janecentofante@virginia.edu